Market Positioning:
The BMW E31 8 Series was BMW's flagship luxury grand tourer, positioned as a high-performance, sophisticated, and exclusive coupe.
Key Competitors:
Competed against other high-end luxury coupes of its era, such as the Porsche 928, Jaguar XJS, Mercedes-Benz SEC-Class (C140), and potentially the Ferrari 400/412.
Defining Characteristics:
Strikingly aerodynamic design, powerful V12 engine (initially), advanced technology for its time (e.g., Servotronic steering, ASC+T traction control), and luxurious interior appointments.
Manual Benefit:
Essential resource for owners and independent repair shops to maintain, diagnose, and repair the complex systems of the E31 8 Series, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
Systems Covered:
Maintenance, general instructions, motor, engine electrics, fuel preparation and control, fuel tank and lines, radiator, exhaust system, clutch, gearbox, drive chain, steering, rear wheel drive, brakes, wheels and tyres, frame, equipment, general electrical equipment, instruments, lights.
Estimated Page Count:
Likely 1000+ pages (typical for factory BMW repair manuals of this era, actual count not specified)
Manual Type:
Factory Repair Manual / Service Manual
Digital Format:
PDF / WinRAR
Powertrain:
Comprehensive coverage of the M70 V12 engine (likely 5.0L), including lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition, exhaust, clutch, and transmission systems.
Drivetrain:
Detailed information on the rear-wheel-drive system, including driveshaft, differential, and axle components.
Chassis And Suspension:
Includes steering system (likely Servotronic power steering), braking system (ABS expected), wheels, tires, and frame/body structural components.
Electrical And Electronics:
Extensive coverage of engine electrics, general electrical equipment, instruments, and lighting systems, including wiring diagrams.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug service, and brake pad replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides and diagnostic steps for various systems, likely including on-board diagnostics (OBD) for engine management.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major vehicle systems.
Technical Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values, and other critical technical data for accurate repairs.
Depth Of Coverage:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and highly skilled DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic adjustments to complete component overhauls.
Engine Type:
V12, naturally aspirated
Displacement:
4988 cc (5.0 Liters)
Horsepower:
Approx. 300 hp @ 5200 rpm (for M70B50)
Torque:
Approx. 470 Nm (347 lb-ft) @ 4100 rpm (for M70B50)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic M1.2 Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) and Ignition Control
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium)
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled, pressurized system with engine-driven fan and viscous coupling.
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed automatic transmission (ZF 4HP24 EH)
Transmission Type Optional:
6-speed manual transmission (Getrag S6-1450), rare, primarily for European markets or specific enthusiast models.
Transmission Control:
Electronic control with sport/economy modes.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent Dexron II/III compatible fluid). Capacity approximately 7-8 liters.
Length:
Approx. 4787 mm (188.5 in)
Width:
Approx. 1855 mm (73.0 in)
Height:
Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2634 mm (103.7 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1700-1800 kg (3748-3968 lbs) depending on options.
Safety Ratings:
No specific NHTSA or Euro NCAP ratings available for this era; safety was focused on passive restraint systems and active systems of the time.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T).
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and passenger airbags (optional or standard depending on market/year), seatbelt pre-tensioners, energy-absorbing steering column, reinforced body structure.
Infotainment System:
Original systems typically included a high-end BMW Professional radio/cassette player with a multi-speaker system. Optional CD changer.
Driver Assistance Features:
Servotronic variable-assist power steering, cruise control, ASC+T traction control.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily focused on audio input (cassette tape, possibly radio data system). No modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity.
Comfort Technology:
Dual-zone automatic climate control, heated seats (optional), power-adjustable seats with memory, power windows, power sunroof, power mirrors, self-leveling headlights (optional).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for precise interval.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended around 60,000 miles, but exact interval depends on plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW High Performance Synthetic Engine Oil, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (refer to manual for exact viscosity based on climate and specific engine variant).
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) or DOT 4 Plus.
Common Issues Engine:
Oil leaks from V-bank seals, ignition coil failures, VANOS system issues (on later models), fuel distributor/injector problems, cooling system hose degradation.
Common Issues Electrical:
Wiring harness degradation (especially in engine bay), ABS/ASC sensor failures, central locking issues, Tamper-Proof Identification (TID) module problems.
Common Issues Transmission:
Automatic transmission torque converter issues, shifting problems, transmission control module (TCM) faults.
Common Issues Chassis:
Strut top mount wear, ball joint wear, exhaust system corrosion, rear axle bushings.
Preventative Maintenance:
Regular inspection and replacement of all rubber hoses and seals, periodic cleaning of the MAF sensor and throttle body, diligent fluid changes are crucial for this complex vehicle.
Bmw Heritage:
BMW's legacy in performance luxury vehicles, known for engineering excellence and driver-focused dynamics.
E31 Development:
Developed as a successor to the iconic E24 6 Series, the E31 was a clean-sheet design aimed at establishing BMW in the ultra-luxury GT segment with a focus on advanced technology and V8/V12 engines.
Production Years:
1989-1999
Initial Model Year Production:
1989 (launch model was the 850i)
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
Automotive Awards:
While specific awards for the 1989 model year are not widely documented, the E31 8 Series was critically acclaimed for its design, engineering, and performance, contributing to BMW's reputation as a builder of desirable luxury cars.
Design Acclaim:
Frequently cited for its timeless and aerodynamic styling, often considered one of BMW's most beautiful designs.
